Safety Guidelines for Partner Drivers

Created by Okito Support, Modified on Mon, 30 Sep, 2024 at 4:21 PM by Okito Support

Regular Inspections: Keep your vehicle in good working condition by regularly checking brakes, tires, lights, fluids, and other critical systems.
Emergency Kit: Carry an emergency kit that includes items like a first aid kit, flashlight, tire repair tools, jumper cables, and a spare tire.
Clean and Clear Windows: Make sure mirrors and windows are clean and free of obstructions to ensure visibility.

GPS Tracking: Always keep your GPS tracking on so that your location is constantly monitored by the ride-sharing platform.
Emergency Assistance Button: Familiarize yourself with the app’s emergency button or safety features, which connect you with law enforcement or the platform’s safety team in case of danger.
Ride Sharing and Notifications: Share your live ride status with a family member or friend using the app’s sharing feature for added security.

Check the Passenger’s Name: Before starting a ride, verify the passenger's name by politely asking for confirmation. This ensures you’re picking up the correct person.
Use Profile Photos (If Available): Some ride-sharing platforms display a profile photo of the passenger. Use this to match the rider to the account.

Avoid Dangerous Areas: Be mindful of unsafe or poorly lit areas, especially at night. Politely ask passengers to move to a safer location if necessary.
Drop-Off in Safe Spots: Ensure that passengers are dropped off in safe, well-lit areas, even if it means moving slightly away from the original drop-off point.

Stay Alert: If something feels off about a situation or passenger, trust your instincts. It’s better to cancel a ride than risk your safety.
Decline Uncomfortable Requests: If a passenger makes you uncomfortable or requests something unsafe (e.g., speeding, stopping in an unsafe area), politely decline.

Follow Traffic Laws: Obey speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs to avoid accidents and fines.
Maintain Safe Distance: Keep a safe following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, allowing enough reaction time.
Stay Focused: Avoid distractions like using your phone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving.

Remain Calm: If a passenger becomes difficult or unruly, stay calm and avoid confrontation. Your goal should be to de-escalate the situation.
Pull Over if Necessary: If the situation escalates to a point where you feel unsafe, pull over in a safe, public area and politely ask the passenger to leave the vehicle.
Report Problem Passengers: Use the app’s reporting features to report any incidents of harassment or dangerous behavior.

Use In-App Communication: Always use the ride-sharing platform’s communication features to protect your phone number and personal details.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Don’t share personal information such as your home address or phone number with passengers.

Know the Nearest Emergency Services: Be familiar with the location of nearby hospitals, police stations, and emergency services, especially in unfamiliar areas.
Emergency Contacts: Save emergency contacts on your phone, and have quick access to the app’s emergency assistance features.

COVID-19 Precautions: Continue following health protocols like wearing a mask (if required by the platform), offering hand sanitizer to passengers, and ensuring your vehicle is regularly cleaned.
Ventilate the Vehicle: Keep the windows slightly open or ensure proper air circulation to reduce the risk of airborne diseases.
Clean Regularly: Disinfect high-touch areas like door handles, seatbelts, and armrests between rides.

Seatbelts for All: Politely ask all passengers to wear their seatbelts. You can refuse the ride if passengers do not comply, as this is a basic safety measure.
Secure Loose Items: Ensure that any luggage, bags, or personal items are safely stored to prevent distractions or blockages in case of sudden stops.

Take Breaks: Schedule breaks during long driving shifts to prevent fatigue, which can impair your judgment and reaction time.
Monitor Driving Hours: Follow any legal or platform guidelines regarding maximum working hours and avoid driving if you feel overly tired.

Be Aware of Local Traffic Rules: Stay informed about traffic laws in your area, including any ride-sharing regulations that apply.
Ride-Sharing Platform Policies: Be familiar with your platform's rules, particularly those related to safety, cancellations, and passenger handling.

Lock the Doors: Always lock your doors while waiting for a passenger to arrive, especially in high-risk areas.
Parking Safely: When parked, choose well-lit, populated areas to reduce the risk of vehicle damage or theft.

Cashless Payments: Encourage passengers to use the platform’s in-app payment system to avoid the risks associated with handling cash, especially during late hours.
Avoid Discussing Fares: Leave fare disputes to the ride-sharing platform to avoid confrontation over payment issues.